Telescopic cover assembly for open bed vehicles and latch assembly for use therewith

ABSTRACT

A telescopic cover assembly for open bed vehicles comprising a plurality of cover segments at least one of which is longitudinally movable relative to another. The movable segment carries wheel assemblies engageable with a pair of guide rails along which the segment is movable. Means are included for selectively elevating and lowering the movable segment during movement between extended and retracted positions. Detents are provided in which portions of the wheel assemblies are engageable for maintaining the movable cover segment in predetermined locations. Improved latch means also are provided for holding open a pivotal gate closure mounted at one end of the cover assembly.

United States Patent [1 1 3,640,565 Anderson 1 Feb. 8, 1972 [54]TELESCOPllC COVER ASSEMBLY FOR 2,853,340 9/1958 Hershberger ..296/l00OPEN BED VEHICLES AND LATCH 3,165,352 1/1965 Hallock ..296/l00 ASSEMBLYO USE THEREWITH 3,342,523 9/1967 Lutgen ..296/ 100 [72] lnventor: EdwinG. Anderson, 804 Northey Drive,

Sacramento, Calif. 95833 [22] Filed: Feb. 5, 1970 [21] Appl. No.: 8,864

Related US. Application Data [63] Continuation-impart of Ser. No.815,309, Apr. 11,

1969, Pat. No. 3,578,378.

521 U.S.Cl ..296/137B [51] ..B60j 7/10 [58] FieldofSearch ..296/l00,137B, 50;49/234, 49/235 [56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS2,074,358 3/1937 Bixel ..296/ 100 Primary ExaminerLeo Friaglia AssistantExaminer-Robert R. Song Attorney-Flehr, l-lohback, Test, Albritton &Herbert [5 7] ABSTRACT A telescopic cover assembly for open bed vehiclescomprising a plurality of cover segments at least one of which islongitudinally movable relative to another. The movable segment carrieswheel assemblies engageable with a pair of guide rails along which thesegment is movable. Means are included for selectively elevating andlowering the movable segment during movement between extended andretracted positions. Detents are provided in which portions of the wheelassemblies are engageable for maintaining the movable cover segment inpredetermined locations. improved latch means also are provided forholding open a pivotal gate closure mounted at one end of the coverassembly.

26 Claims, 19 Drawing Figures PATENTEUFEB 8 m2 SHEET 1 [IF 6 INVENTOR.

Edwin G. Anderson BY 67%, W fi W Attorneys PAYENTEDFEB 8 I972 SHEET 2 OF6 I i1 as;

INVENTOR.

Q v f & Ma T. I 3 $1 B Edwin G. Anderson Attorneys PAIENTEBFEB 81912SHEET 3 0F -6 D3 INVENTOR. 54 Edwin G. Anderson lllllllll PAIENIEMEB aman SHEET l 0F 6 mvzzmon Edwin G. Anderson PAIENTEDFEB 8 I972 SHEET 5 OF6 R m m v W.

Edwin G. Anderson By? 2 PAIENTEDrca 8 I972 3.640.565

saw a of e BY Edwin G. Anderson 1% W W W Attorneys TELESCOPIC COVERASSEMBLY FOR OPEN BED VEHICLES AND LATCH ASSEMBLY FOR USE THEREWITI-ICROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION This application is acontinuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 815,309 filed Apr. II,1969, now U.S. Pat. No. 3,578,378 entitled Telescopic And Pivotal CoverAssembly For Open Bed Vehicles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention This inventionrelates to cover assemblies for open bed vehicles, such as pickup trucksand the like. More particularly this invention relates to the field oftelescoping covers for open bed vehicles in which at least one coversegment is movable relative to another segment or segments for selectivepositioning to overlie or expose the open bed of the vehicle.

Still more particularly, this invention relates to the field oftelescopic cover assemblies for open bed vehicles in which a movablecover segment is elevated or lowered during movement thereof relative toretracted and extended positions. This invention further relates tomeans for pivotally mounting and actuating an end gate closure for oneend of the cover assembly.

2. Description of the Prior Art Telescopic covers for open bed vehicleshave been known generally in the art heretofore. Typical of such priorknown constructions are the cover structures shown in the following U.S.patents: Hershberger, U.S. Pat. No. 2,853,340; Hallock et al., U.S. Pat.No. 3,165,352; Lutgen', U.S. Pat. No. 3,342,523; and Bixell, U.S. Pat.No. 2,074,358. While the identified patents are representative of thetype of vehicle bed covers available to the trade heretofore, nonepossesses the improved cover segment mounting and guide means disclosedherein by which a movable cover segment is effectively supported fortelescopic movement. Nor do such patents disclose the improved latchassembly disclosed herein by which an end gate closure of a coverassembly is actuated during pivotal movement between open and closedpositions.

The sturdy construction and ease of operation of the preferredembodiments of the telescopic cover assembly illustrated and describedherein produce a structure superior to those disclosed in the patentsnoted above and others commercially available on the open market. So faras is known, the specific features of novelty stressed herein have notbeen known or utilized heretofore in conjunction with telescopic vehiclebed covers.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The subject invention relates to a telescopiccover assembly for open bed vehicles, such as pickup trucks and thelike, in which a plurality of two or more sturdy, generally rigid, coversegments are mounted for movement relative to each other to permitselective exposure or covering of the bed of the vehicle on which thecover is mounted. To that end, improved means are provided for mountingand guiding at least one cover segment for longitudinal movementrelative to another longitudinally fixed cover segment in telescopicfashion.

The movable segment is supported so that the same is provided withadequate clearance between itself and the fixed cover segment duringmovement so that contact and binding therebetween when the movablesegment is traversed between its extended and retracted positions isobviated. To that end, means for mounting and guiding the movable coversegment is specifically formed to cooperate with special structureprovided to elevate the movable segment into contact with the fixedsegment when the movable segment reaches its extended position and tolower the movable segment as the same is moved from its extendedposition towards its retracted position. The cover assembly alsoincludes improved structure for supporting the movable segment whichincludes wheel assemhlics and detent means in association therewith forpositively yet releasably retaining the movable segment in predeterminedpositions.

Improved means for closing the end of the cover assembly when the sameis in its extended position also are provided and such improved meansinclude a specially designed latch assembly for actuating an end gateclosure of the assembly and for retaining such end gate closure in anopen position when desired.

In conjunction with the disclosure of the aforementioned pendingapplication Ser. No. 815,309, the present invention in the severalembodiments thereof described herein is incorporatable into a telescopiccover which is also pivotal upwardly as a unit in the manner disclosedin the aforementioned application, as well as in a more conventionalcover assembly in which such pivotal movement is not effectable. In thatregard, the improved features of the aforementioned application and ofthe present invention lend themselves to incorporation into a singlecover assembly and therefore the compatible features of such applicationare incorporated herein by reference. Specifically, details of thepivotal cover arrangement disclosed in the aforementioned applicationhave not been included herein. However, it should be understood thatsuch features may be included and combined with the novel features ofthis application if desired.

As with the cover assembly disclosed in the aforementioned application,the cover assembly of the present invention is constructed in suchfashion that the same is very sturdy and capable of resisting the roughwear and tear to which a cover assembly is normally subjected. Also, thecover possesses generally watertight characteristics when extended sothat maximum protection for cargo carried by the vehicle is afforded.

The construction of the present invention differs from that disclosed inthe aforementioned application principally in the manner in which themovable cover segment is elevated and lowered during telescopic movementthereof and in the improved means by which an end gate closure ispivotally mounted for selective movement between open and closedpositions as required during use of the cover assembly.

From the foregoing, it should be understood that objects of thisinvention, among others, include: the provision of an improvedtelescopic cover assembly for open bed vehicles; such as pickup trucksand the like; the provision of improved means for supporting and guidinga movable cover segment of a telescopic cover assembly during movementthereof between extended and retracted positions; the provision ofimproved means for pivotally mounting an end gate closure for a coverassembly; the provision of an improved end gate closure latch assembly;and the provision of an improved cover assembly which is capable ofwithstanding rough handling during repeated use as well as one which issubstantially weathertight to provide maximum cargo protection.

These and other objects of this invention will become apparent from astudy of the following disclosure in which reference is directed to theattached drawings.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a pickuptruck-type vehicle on which the subject cover assembly is shown mountedabove the open bed thereof, the cover being shown in the extendedposition covering such bed.

FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view through one embodiment of thecover assembly taken generally in the plane of line 2-2 of FIG. 1showing the movable cover segment partially retracted.

FIG. 3 is a partial rear elevational view of the cover assembly showingthe end gate closure supported thereby.

FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view through the cover assembly takengenerally in the plane of line 44 of FIG. 3 illustrating details of themeans provided for supporting and guiding the movable cover segmentduring telescopic movement thereof.

FIG. 5 is a horizontal sectional view through a rear portion of themovable cover segment taken in the plane of line 5-5 of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a vertical sectional view taken in the plane of line 6-6 ofFIG. 5.

- FIG. 7 is a vertical sectional view taken in the plane of line 7-7 ofFIG. 4 showing the'movable cover. segment in its extended position.

FIG. 8 is a view similar to FIG. 7 but showing the movable cover segmentin its retracted position.

FIG. 9 is a horizontal sectional view through the end gate closure takenin the plane of line 9-9 of FIG. 3.

FIGS. 10, l1 and 12 are generally schematic longitudinal I sectionalview corresponding generally to the showing of FIG. 2 which illustratealternate embodiments of structure provided for elevating and loweringthe movable cover segment during telescopic movement thereof.

FIG. 13' is a vertical sectional view through the end gate closure ofthe cover assembly taken in the plane of line 13-13 of FIG. 3illustrating details of the improved latch assembly thereof when thegate closure is closed.

FIG. 14 is a view corresponding generally to FIG. 13 but showing thegate closure being held in the open position by the latch assembly.

FIGS. 15 through 17 are views corresponding generally to FIG. 14illustrating the sequence of operation of the latch assembly duringmovement of the gate closure from the open position to the closedposition.

FIG. 18 is a partial plan view of the pivotal latch of the latchassembly taken in the plane of line 18-18 of FIG. 16.

FIG. 19 is a generally schematic view of a further modification of thestructure for elevating and lowering the movable cover segment duringtelescopic movement thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS In the pending applicationabove identified, of which this is a continuation-in-part, a telescopiccover assembly is disclosed which includes novel features for mounting,a movable cover segment which are closely related to those disclosedherein. This application amplifies the disclosure of the pendingapplication by adding thereto a description of further embodiments formeans and structure by which a movable cover segment may be supportedfor telescopic movement. This application further discloses an improvedlatch assembly by means of which a gate closure for a cover assembly maybe actuated which is effective for positively and releasably holding thegate closure in an open position, yet which may be easily operated topermit rapid movement of the gate closure to a closed position.

While this application is directed primarily to the added alternativesand disclosure summarized above, it should be understood that the novelfeatures stressed in the aforementioned application are equallyapplicable for use with the present invention. For a more detaileddescription of the ad vantages of telescopic cover assemblies of theimproved type disclosed herein, and their important and improvedfeatures over prior known cover assemblies, reference is directed to thedisclosure of the aforementioned application.

With the improved features of this invention and the relationshipthereof to the previously filed application in mind, reference isdirected to the following disclosure for a detailed description of thespecific improvements incorporated in this invention.

In FIG. 1, the vehicle with which the subject invention is illustratedis a conventionalpickup truck, designated 1. However, it should beappreciated that the invention is not restricted to use with automotivevehicles, or with automotive vehicles of the particular typeillustrated. Also, the cover assembly shown in FIG. I, which isgenerally designated 2, is of the low-profile" type designed to coverthe open bed of the vehicle without extending appreciably above thesidewalls 3 and pivotal cnd gate 4 of the truck body. However. it shouldbe appreciated that this invention is also utilizable in a "highprofilecover construction in which the cover assembly is designed to extendappreciably above the sidewalls 3 and end gate 4 of the vehicle up to orabove the top of the cab 6 thereof. Such a high-profile cover increasesappreciably the size and capacity of the protected cargo space of thetruck bed lying beneath the cover.

As noted previously, the invention specifically described herein isshown in conjunction with a nontiltup cover construction in which thesegments of the cover assembly are precluded from pivotal movementupwardly away from the position shown in FIG. 1. However, as alsopreviously noted, the tiltup construction disclosed in theaforementioned application may be incorporated into the presentinvention if desired.

The truck-type vehicle shown includes the cab 6 from which a normallyopen truck bed projects rearwardly, the lateral margins of such bedbeing defined by the aforementioned upstanding truck body sidewalls 3.The rear wall 7 of the cab defines the front margin of the truck bed andthe truck bed rear wall, collectively designated 8, is defined by theaforementioned pivotal end gate 4 and a pair of opposed rear wall panels9 which cooperate to define the rear margin of the truck bed. End gate 4is pivotally mounted in known fashion and is normally held in the closedposition shown in FIG. 1 by a pair of conventional releasable latches l1interposed between the end gate and the rear wall panels 9 in knownfashion.

The cover assembly shown in FIG. 1 comprises two generally invertedU-shaped cover segments 12 and 13 which are movable relative to eachother. That is, rear segment 12 in the illustrated embodiment islongitudinally movable forwardly from the extended position shown inFIG. 1 to be telescopically nested within the front fixed segment 13.When thus telescoped, substantially unrestricted access is granted tothe vehicle bed covered by the assembly so that cargo may be easilyplaced therein or removed therefrom as required.

It should be understood, as will be pointed out hereinafter, that theopposite front and rear ends of the cover assembly are closed off bymeans to be described so that when the cover assembly is in the extendedposition shown in FIG. I an essentially watertight and weatherproofcover is provided over the vehicle bed lying therebeneath.

Means are provided in conjunction with the cover assembly forcooperating with the rear end wall 8 of the truck body to close off theend of the cover assembly and to permit locking of the same to preventunauthorized access to the truck bed. Such means comprises an end gateclosure, generally designated 14, which is hingedly and pivotallyconnected with the rear cover segment 12 for upward pivotal movement toan open position, as noted in FIG. 14. As seen in FIGS. 1 and 3, the endgate closure 14 is designed to partially overlie the tailgate 4 of thetruck body and, for that purpose, includes a curved extension 16 whichoverlies and contacts the tailgate 4 when the end gate closure is closedto preclude downward movement of the tailgate. As will be describedhereinafter, the end gate closure 14 includes an improved latch assemblyfor holding the gate closure in the open position shown in FIG. 14.

It will be noted from FIGS. 7 and 8 that the movable cover segment 12 isof somewhat smaller dimension than the front cover segment 13, althoughboth segments possess generally the same cross-sectional configuration.Thus, nesting of the movable cover segment within the fixed coversegment is permitted when desired. It should also be understood that,although only two cover segments are employed in the arrangementillustrated herein, more than two cover segments may be utilized, andthat more than one of such segments may be movably mounted as requiredto meet particular needs.

When the end gate closure 14 and its curved extension 16 are overlappingengaged with the tailgate 4 of the truck, forward longitudinal slidingmovement of the rear cover segment vided as best seen in FIGS. 3 and 9which comprises a pair of oppositely directed laterally extendinglatching arms 21 which pass through suitable guide brackets 22 securedby welding or the like to the inner surface of a plate 23 which definesthe inner surface of the gate closure 14. The guide brackets 22constrain movement of the rods 21 other than laterally in a directiongenerally parallel to the gate closure plate 23. As seen FIG. 9,opposite ends 24 of the respective latching rods are receivable inlocking interengagement with a portion of the means by which the coversegments are secured to the truck body in the manner to be described.

Extension or withdrawal of the respective latching rods 21 to effectsecure latching or unlatching of the gate closure is effected by arotatable control handle 26 which is operatively connected through aconventional toggle mechanism, generally designated 27, with each of thelatching rods 21 in known fashion. The toggle mechanism is positioned ina housing 28 bolted or otherwise securedto the gate closure plate 23 asseen in FIG. 9. Upon pivotal movement of the control handle the latchingrods may be retracted to extended as desired to effect latching orunlatc'hing of the gate closure. Preferably, a key lock structure (notshown) is incorporated into the operating handle 26 in known fashion toprevent unauthorized turning thereof. Thus, access to the truck bed maybe positively precluded by an except authorized persons having a key ahandle 26 when the tailgate 4 is up, the rear cover segment is in itsextended position, and the end gate closure is down, latched and locked.

The width of the end gate closure 14 is determined generally by thespacing between the inner surface of the sidewalls 3 of the truck body.The gate closure preferably is of a width just slightly less than thespacing between the inner surfaces of such sidewalls, so that the gateclosure may be pivoted to the down position even when the movable coversegment 12 is telescoped forwardly. Thus, the movable cover segment alsomay be latched in the retracted position if desired. When thus heldretracted, cargo which projects above the upper level of the coverassembly can be handled in the vehicle. I

The end gate closure 14 is hingedly connected with the rear coversegment by means of an elongated hinge structure 27 operativelyinterposed between the upper edge of the gate closure and cover segment.In that regard, the cover segment 12 is provided with an arcuate gateclosure mounting plate 28 secured to the rear end of the cover segmentin any suitable fashion, such as by welding or riveting the same to therearmost reenforcing frame member of the segment as noted hereinafter.

The mounting plate 28 cooperates with other closure means, including abackup plate and an end cap structure, as will be described, whichcooperate when the movable cover segment is in the extended position sothat the entire rear of the track body is fully enclosed andweatherproof as noted in FIGS. 1 and 3.

As noted from FIGS. 2, 4, 7 and 8, each of the cover segments 12 and 13is constructed in the form of a generally U- shaped inverted shellhaving opposed generally parallel sidewalls interconnected with agenerally flat roof portion through rounded edges. The sidewalls 31 ofthe rear movable segment 21 and the roof portion 32 thereof preferablyare formed from a single sheet of suitable metal, such as aluminum oraluminum alloy. Similarly, the sidewalls 33 and roof portion 34 of thefront cover segment 13 are formed from a single sheet of metal, such asaluminum or aluminum alloy. Preferably, as perhaps best seen from FIG.2, the respective cover segments are structurally reenforced at spacedlocations along their lengths by a series of spaced channel-shaped framemembers 36 and 37 in the respective cover segments 12 and 13. At itsopposite rear and front ends, the movable cover segment 12 is providedwith rigid generally U-shaped channel frame members 38 and 39respectively which provide means for mounting wheel assemblies as willbe described hereinafter. Mounted on the outerperiphery of the frontreenforcing frame member 39 of the movable cover segment 12 is sealingmeans in the form of an elongated continuous rubber or plastic gasketstrip, designated 41, which is adhesively or otherwise suitably securedto the outer surface of the sidewalls and top wall portion of coversegment 12. Thus, when the movable cover segment is in the extendedposition seen in FIG. 4, the sealing means 41 engages the inner marginof the end reenforcing frame member 37 of the cover segment 13 toprovide an essentially weathertight seal between the two segments alongtheir areas of contact as noted.

The reenforcing frame members described impart the necessary transverserigidity and strength to the cover segment which permit the same towithstand the very rough use to which it will normally be subjected. Thecover segments and respective channel frame members described aresecured together in any suitable fashion, such as by welding orriveting. If desired, the cover segments may also be provided withlongitudinal reenforcing means to meet special needs.

As perhaps best seen in FIG. 2, the front end of cover segment I3 isenclosed by means of a sheet 42 of suitable metal, such as aluminum oraluminum alloy, formed to conform to the cross-sectional configurationof the cover segment and welded or otherwise secured to the front framemember 43 of the segment 13. Thus, the front end of the cover segment isenclosed to watertight, weatherproof fashion.

The front cover section 13 is fixedly secured to the truck body inwatertight relationship, preferably in the manner disclosed in greaterdetail in the aforementioned pending application. In that regard, coversection 13 preferably is secured to the truck body by utilizing themeans provided for mounting and guiding the movable cover segment to thebody as set out hereinafter. As a result, the cover assembly may beassembled separate from the vehicle and then secured as a unit to thetruck body when desired. Thus, the entire cover assembly may befabricated separately to facilitate and expedite manufacturingprocedures.

Further reference to FIG. 2 taken in conjunction with FIGS. 4 and 7shows the means provided at opposite sides of the truck body formounting the segments on the body and for guiding the movable segmentfor telescopic movement relative to the fixed segment. Such mounting andguiding means is generally designated 46 and in basic structural detailis closely related to the corresponding mounting and guiding meansdisclosed in the aforementioned patent application. However, themounting and guiding means of the present invention is of somewhatsimplified and improved construction which permits its manufacture morereadily and at somewhat lower cost than the corresponding constructiondisclosed in the aforementioned application.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the mounting and guiding meansincludes a generally L-shaped metal mounting plate structure 47(preferably of aluminum or aluminum alloy) which includes a horizontalportion 48 and an upright vertical portion 49. Preferably a mountingplate 47' extends the full length of the truck body along each sidethereof and is secured thereto in any suitable fashion such as bybolting or welding in the manner described in greater detail in theaforementioned application. Some form of sealing means (not shown)desirably is interposed between the horizontal portion 48 of themounting plate and the sidewalls 3 of the truck body.

As seen in dotted lines in FIG. 7, the cover segment 13 is fixedlysecured by means of suitably arranged spaced angle brackets 51 securedto the inner surfaces of the opposite sidewalls of the fixed coversegment by riveting or welding. The brackets 51 in turn are secured bybolting or welding to the horizontal portion 48 of the mounting plate inweathertight fashion.

The mounting and guiding means further includes guide rail structureprovided in conjunction with each of the mounting plate structures atopposite sides of the truck body. While in the drawings only onemounting plate structure and its associated guide rail structure areillustrated, namely those at the left side of the truck body lookingforwardly, it should be understood that corresponding structures areprovided along the right side of the truck body so that each of thecover segments is suitably and effectively supported on the truck bodyas described. The guide rail structure includes an elongated guide rail52 which extends from closely adjacent the tailgate 4 of the truck to aposition generally aligned with the frontmost edge of the cover segment13 defined by the end closure plate 42 as seen in FIG. 2.

In the embodiments shown herein, the respective guide rails employed arecontinuous from one end thereof to the other. But, as noted previously,because this invention also lends itself to utilization with a tiltupcover structure of the type described in the aforementioned application,when so used such guide rails may be 'discontinuously formed to permitupward tilting of the cover assembly in the manner described in suchapplication.

Preferably each of the guide rail structures disclosed herein isstraight throughout all or the major portion of its length for thepurpose to be described. Preferably, each of the guide rails, as bestseen in FIGS. 7 and 8, is provided with a generally narrow oblongcross-sectional configuration having concave upper and lower surfacesand opposed flat sides. Such configuration minimizes friction of thesupporting structure of the movable segment as the same moves therealongand permits smooth telescopic operation of the cover assembly whileprecluding clogging of the guide rail structure with dirt or otherdebris which might tend to accumulate adjacent thereto during use.

Guide rail 52 is supported by the mounting plate structure 47 at spacedlocations along its length by suitable fasteners 53 having spacersleeves 54 positioned therearound as seen best in FIG. 4. The spacersleeves ensure proper and fixed spacing of the guide rail a uniformdistance from the vertical portion 49 of the associated mounting plate.In that regard, it will be noted that the guide rail is supported by thefasteners 53 to extend along the outer side of the vertical portion 49of the mounting plate. Also, as seen in FIG. 7, preferably the uppersurface of the guide rail is positioned so that it is substantiallycoplanar with the upper edge of the vertical portion 49 of the mountingplate. By minimizing the height of the vertical portion 49 of themounting plate, minimum obstruction is provided along opposite sides ofthe truck body when the cover segment 12 is moved to its telescopicretracted position within cover segment 12.

As noted from FIG. 2, the guide rail 52 employed in the first embodimentdescribed, is straight throughout its length and structure separate fromthe guide rail is provided for effecting selective raising and loweringof the movable cover segment 12 as the same moves between its extendedposition and retracted position. Such elevating and lowering is effectedto provide adequate clearance between the relatively movable coversegments as the same are telescoped so that the one will not interferewith the other during such movement and so that the same are broughtinto secure sealing engagement with each other in the manner best seenin FIG. 4 when the cover segment 12 is in its extended position.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2, 7 and 8, such structure forselectively elevating and lowering the movable cover segment includesinclined means provided adjacent one end of the guide rail structure andalso intermediate opposite ends of such structure with which therespective front and rear ends of the movable cover segment areselectively engageablewhen the same reaches its extended position. Suchinclined means comprises a tapered metal guide block 56 provided at therear end of the mounting plate structure and another tapered metal block57 provided intermediate the opposite ends of such structure. It will benoted that each of the tapered blocks includes inclined surfaces whichlead up to a generally horizontal surface in the manner perhaps bestseen in dotted lines in FIG. 4. The tapered blocks of the elevating andlowering structure are secured to the inner side of the upright portion49 of the mounting plate 47 in any suitable fashion, such as by welding.

The respective tapered blocks are spaced from each other a distancecorresponding generally to and determined by the longitudinal length ofthe movable cover segment 12 so that portions at the front and rear endsof the movable cover segment may simultaneously engage the respectivetapered blocks and ride thereupon to simultaneously elevate or lowersuch opposite ends of the cover segment as the same is moved between itsextended and retracted positions. As seen in FIG. 4, the cover segmentroof portion 32 is maintained generally horizontal when in the extendedposition due to the spaced positioning and corresponding verticaldimensions of the tapered blocks 56 and 57.

In the arrangement shown, the tapered blocks 56 and 57 serve a secondfunction in that they are provided with openings 58 and 59 thereinrespectively which are provided to receive one of the aforementionedlatching rods 21 by means of which the end gate closure 14 is held inthe down position. Because each of the tapered blocks is provided withsuch a latching rod receiving opening, the gate closure may be latchedin the down position when the movable cover segment is in the fullyretracted or the fully extended position.

In those embodiments to be described hereinafter in which one or both ofthe tapered blocks mentioned is eliminated, it will be understood thatsimilar openings for accommodating the ends of latching rods 21 in therespective positions noted will be provided directly in the mountingplate 47 provided at opposite sides of the truck body. Note FIGS. 10through 12.

Provided in conjunction with the means for mounting and guiding thecover segments is support structure mounted on the movable cover segmentat each of the opposite sides and opposite ends of such segment whichare engageable with and movable along the respective guide rails duringmovement of the cover segment between its extended and retractedpositions. Such support structure comprises means in the form of wheelassemblies mounted adjacent each of the respective front and rear endsof the movable cover segments at opposite sides thereof.

As best seen from FIGS. 4 through 6, the respective wheel assemblies 61and 62 mounted at the respective front and rear ends of the movablecover segment are identical in construction and each includes an openmetal housing 63 which includes a laterally extending flange portion 64having holes 66 for receiving bolts 67 by means of which the housing maybe secured to the rear end reenforcing frame members 38 of the movablecover segment as best seen in FIG. 5. In that regard, each wheelassembly 62 at the front end of the movable segment is similarly securedto its associated frame member 39. The wheel assemblies 61 and 62 atopposite ends of cover segment 12 are mounted on the same vertical levelso that the cover segment roof portion will remain substantiallyhorizontal during all positions of movement thereof.

Mounted on and supported by the housing 63 of each wheel assembly arespaced upper and lower wheels 68 and 69 respectively. Preferably upperwheel 68 is of somewhat larger diameter than lower wheel 69 and in thearrangement shown the upper wheel is fixedly mounted for rotary movementon the housing 63 by means of an axle 71 projecting from and secured tothe housing. Lower wheel 69 however, is nonfixedly mounted on thehousing to permit vertical movement thereof relative to the housing andto the upper wheel. In that regard, wheel 69 is mounted on a small axle72 which extends through a wheel mounting plate 73 slidably positionedwithin the housing. The housing is provided with a slot 74 in which axle72 is vertically slidable, lower wheel 69 moving therewith during suchsliding motion.

The mounting plate 73 for the lower wheel is normally spring urgedupwardly by a pair of tension springs 76 interposed between the wheelmounting plate and the top of the housing, as best seen in FIG. 6. Thus,under normal operating conditions, the springs pull or bias lower wheel69 upwardly into engagement with the lower curved surface of the guiderail in all operating positions of the movable cover segment. At thesame time, in most operating positions, the upper wheel 68 is held insecure rolling engagement with the curved upper surface of the guiderail by the biasing effect of the springs. This spring-urgedconstruction for the wheel assembly ensures that the respective wheelsare in proper rolling engagement with the guide rail under all operatingconditions and in so doing the possibility of rattling and the likeencountered with conventional structures known heretofore is obviated.

Additionally, the spring-urged construction of the wheel assemblypermits the movable cover segment 12 to be elevated and lowered duringtelescopic movement thereof between its extended positions in the mannershown. Thus, when the cover segment is elevated in its fully extendedposition as seen in FIG. 4, the upper wheels 68 of the respective wheelassemblies are free of contact with the upper surface of the guiderails. The separation between the wheels as noted is permitted becauseof the spring-urged mounting of the lower wheels 69.

The wheel assemblies as thus far described correspond generally to therelated structure shown in the aforementioned patent application.However, the wheel assemblies of the present invention differ from thosedescribed in the pending application in that the present assembliesinclude additional portions which are engageable with the inclined meansdefined by the tapered elevating and lowering blocks 56 and 57 mentionedpreviously. That is, with the present arrangement, the cover segment 12is formed so that front and rear portions thereof, preferably portionswhich are cooperable with and form a part of the aforementioned wheelassemblies, are engageable with the respective inclined blocks when thecover segment reaches its extended position. In the arrangement shown,such portions of the cover segment are defined by enlarged rotatablewheels 81 secured adjacent the front and rear ends of the movable coversegment at opposite sides thereof. As noted from FIG. 4 taken inconjunction with FIGS. 13 and 14, when the movable cover segment 12 isin its extended position, such wheels 81 ride upon the inclined blocks56 and 57 to elevate the cover segment as noted previously.

While the respective wheels 81 are separately mounted in the embodimentshown, they form an integral operating part of the respective wheelassemblies. It will be noted that the wheels 81 are mounted on the innersides of the vertical portion 49 of the mounting plates 47 as best seenin FIGS. 7 and 8. In that regard, each of the wheels 81 is rotatablysupported by an axle 80 which is secured to the lower end of a contouredbackup plate, generally designated 82, as seen in FIGS. 3, 4, 7 and 8.Each such backup plate at the rear of the movable cover segment 12 iswelded to the inner edge 83 of the reenforcing frame member 38 at therear end of the movable cover segment. The backup plates at the front ofthe movable segment are similarly mounted.

The aforementioned curved end gate closure mounting plate 28 at the rearof segment 12 is also secured by welding or the like to frame member 38so that the opposite side margins of the rear end of the movable coversegment are substantially fully enclosed as seen in FIG. 7. That is, thebackup plate 82 includes a horizontal portion 84 which extends generallytransverse to the axis of the guide rail 52 associated therewith toclose off the ends of the movable cover segment at opposite side marginsof the end closure plate 14 thereof. However, to permit the respectivebackup plates to move longitudinally over the guide rails associatedtherewith, it is necessary that each is provided with a cutout portion86 at its lower end cover. Such cutout is open sided but is generallyrectangular in outline to permit movement of the cover segment 12 alongthe guide rail as noted.

Preferably means is included in conjunction with the cover assembly toclose off that portion of the movable cover segment defined by therespective cutouts 86 of the backup plates at the rear end of themovable segment. To that end, end closure means is provided'at each ofthe opposite sides of the rear end of the cover assembly which, in thepreferred embodiment shown, comprises a generally L-shaped end cap 87(note FIGS. 3 and 4) secured to the rear end of associated mountingplate 47 and guide rail 52 in any suitable fashion, preferably bywelding. Thus, when the movable cover segment 12 is in the fullyextended position, the respective backup plates 82 are in direct contactwith the respective end caps 87 so that the end of the cover assembly iscompletely closed as seen in FIGS. 1 and 3 to provide maximum protectionto the vehicle bed and cargo contained therein from the elements ofnature. In the absence of such end cap structure, entry of rain, snowand the like would be possible. Although not required, rubber or plasticsealing gaskets may be included with the respective end caps if desiredto further enhance their closure ability.

Preferably provided in conjunction with at least one of the structuresfor elevating and lowering the movable segment is detent means withwhich at least part of at least one of the wheel assemblies isoperatively eng'ageable so that the cover assembly may be releasablyretained in a predetermined position when such one wheel assembly isengaged with the detent means. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 2 and4, such detent means comprises at least one cutout formed in theundersurface of the guide rail 52. Preferably three such cutouts areprovided in each guide rail, at opposite ends thereof and intermediatethe ends thereof.

Such cutouts designated, 91, 92 and 93 respectively, are separated fromeach other so that the lower wheel 69 of the respective wheel assembliesat opposite ends of the movable cover section may be simultaneouslyengaged with two such cutouts. That is, as noted in FIG. 4, when themovable cover segment is in the extended position, the respective lowerwheels 69 are engaged with cutout 91 adjacent the rear end of the guiderail and cutout 92 intermediate the opposite ends thereof. Conversely,when the cover segment is in the fully retracted position, therespective lower wheels 69 are engaged with the intermediate cutout 92and cutout 93 adjacent the front end of the guide rail. Theaforementioned springs 76 which urge the lower wheels 69 of therespective wheel assemblies upwardly ensure secure engagement of suchlower wheels with the respective cutouts when the movable cover segmentis one of the predetermined positions noted.

A variation in such detent means which may be employed is shown in FIG.19. In such a modified arrangement, the respective inclined blocks 56and 57 are provided with depressions 96 and 97 respectively in theirupper surfaces. When the cover segment is positioned in the extendedposition, the wheels 81 supported thereon ride up on the inclined blocksand drop into the recesses 96 and 97 provided therein. Thus, upon suchengagement of wheels 81 in the respective recesses, the cover segment isreleasably retained in the predetermined extended position as noted.

With the embodiment thus far described, the inclined means provided inconjunction with the movable cover segment is defined by two spacedtapered blocks mounted on and supported by the respective mounting platestructures 47. FIGS. 10 through 12 show modifications of the inclinedmeans of the support structure which may be employed with the presentinvention for selectively elevating and lowering the movable coversegment as noted. In FIG. 10, the modified guide rail 52a shown isgenerally straight for the major portion of its length but is providedintermediate its opposite ends with a short raised inclined portion 101which cooperates with a tapered block 56 mounted as described previouslyadjacent the rear end of the mounting plate 47. The inclined portion 101of the guide rail is interposed between two elongated aligned generallyhorizontal straight sections 102 and 103. The inclined portion defines athird generally horizontal section which is interconnected. withsections 102 and 103 by two short inclined rail sections. Thus, as thecover segment is moved to its extended position, the wheel 81 at therear end thereof will ride up on the inclined block 56 while at the sametime the wheel assembly 62 at the front end of the assembly will ride upon the inclined portion 101. As noted previously, cutouts 91, 92 and 93preferably are provided in conjunction with this embodiment also toretain the cover segment in its respective positions.

FIG. 11 shows a further modification in which a modified guide railstructure 52b is employed. Such guide rail is generally straight andhorizontal for the major portion of its length and an inclined block 57of the type noted previously is positioned intermediate opposite endsthereof. However, adjacent the rear end thereof the guide rail isprovided with a short inclined portion 104 which includes a sectionwhich is generally horizontal which is connected with the elongatedstraight portion 106 of the rail by an inclined section interposedtherebetween. Thus, with the arrangement shown in FIG. 11, the wheelassembly at the rear end of the movable cover segment will ride up oninclined portion 104 as the wheel 81 of the other wheel assembly at theopposite end thereof rides up on the inclined block 57.

FIG. 12 shows a further modification in which a modified guide rail 530is defined by two aligned generally horizontal elongated portions 106and 107 which have an elevated inclined portion 108 interposedtherebetween. The construction of inclined portion 108 corresponds tothat of the inclined portion 101 described previously with respect toFIG. 10. At its other end, the guide rail includes a second inclinedportion 109 which corresponds in configuration and construction to theinclined portion 104 described previously with respect to FIG. 11. Theinclined portions 108 and 109 are provided for the cover segmentelevating and lowering functions as previously described.

Those modifications shown in FIGS. through 12 which employ selectivelimited deformation of the guide rail differ from the gradually inclinedguide rail structure disclosed in the aforementioned pending applicationin that the subject selective deformation may be readily effected onstraight guide rails in readily available machinery. Such selectivelyand limited deformed guide rails may be manufactured less expensivelythan the gradually inclined guide rail structure disclosed in theaforementioned application and are preferred for certain installationsas a result.

Irrespective of the particular type of inclined means utilized toselectively elevate and lower the movable cover segment as shown herein,the purpose and function of each is the same as described previously.

A further important feature of the present invention resides in .theinclusion therein of an improved latch structure mounted in conjunctionwith the upwardly pivotal end gate closure 14 described. previously.Referring to FIGS. 13 through 17, taken in conjunction with FIGS. 7 and8, preferably one latch assembly is mounted at each of the oppositesides of the end gate closure. However, it has been found thatduplication of those latch assemblies is not essential under allcircumstances and a single latch assembly at one side of the gateclosure may be employed if preferred.

In that regard, only one latch assembly will be specifically describedherein, namely the latch assembly appearing at the left side of themovable cover segment looking forwardly from the rear thereof.Preferably the latch assembly is mounted by utilizing the aforementionedbackup plate 82 which closes off one side margin of the rear of themovable cover segment. The transversely extending portion 84 of suchbackup plate has integrally connected therewith and extending normalthereto another upright portion 111 on the lower end of which isrotatably mounted the wheel 81 which comprises part of an associatedwheel assembly.

Portions 111 and 84 of each backup plate may be formed in one piece bysuitably bending an appropriately configured plate, or the same may bewelded together from separate pieces if preferred. In either event, dueto the connection of the vertical plate portion 84 with a sidewall ofthe movable cover segment 12, the latch assembly is firmly mounted foroperation to support the gate closure 14 in the open position whendesired.

The upright plate portion 111 defines a mounting bracket for the latchassembly which includes a pivofal latch 112 rotatably mounted by a pivotpin 113 and nut 114 on the bracket. The pivotal latch 112 includes agenerally flat circular base 116 which is in rotary contact with theinner surface of bracket 111. A circular cylindrical wall 117 surroundsthe latch base and is formed integral therewith as noted from FIG. 18.An enlarged circular flange 118 projects from the latch 1 12 in parallelrelationship to base 116 and extending as an integral extension of thatflange is a connector arm 119.

Formed within the wall 1 17 and projecting towards the axis of the latchis a recess 121 defined by an inwardly deformed portion of the wall.Closely adjacent the recess and projecting outwardly from the wall is anoutwardly deformed camming projection 122.

The latch assembly further includes pawl means secured to bracket 111which is selectively engageable in the recess 121 in the pivotal latch.Such pawl means includes an open housing 123 secured by rivets 124 orthe like to the bracket 111. Slidably positioned within the housing andnormally projecting from one end thereof is a pawl member 126 having itslower projecting end 127 rounded in one direction as seen in FIGS. 16and 17. The pawl is normally spring urged in the direction to projectfrom the housing by means of a coil spring 130 interposed between theinner end of the pawl and the base of the housing. The pawl is normallyengaged in recess 121 or with the periphery of the cylindrical wall 117of the latch member unless restrained from such engagement in the mannerto be described.

The purpose of the pawl, as seen from FIG. 14, is to be received withinrecess 121 to thereby positively preclude rotation of the latch memberin the counterclockwise direction when viewed in such figure. Becausethe pawl is rounded in only one direction, rotation in only onedirection is precluded. However, because both the pawl end 127 and therecess 121 are rounded in conformity with each other, clockwise rotationof the latch when viewed in FIG. 14 is permitted.

When the latch is in the position shown in FIG. 14 with the pawl engagedin the recess, the end gate closure is securely held in the openposition by means of a connecting link 128 which is operativelyinterposed between and pivotally connected with the connecting arm 119of the latch member and a tab 129 provided on the end gate closure.Thus, counterclockwise rotation of the latch member when viewed in FIG.14 is positively precluded so that downward movement of the end gateclosure is also precluded.

Means is provided in conjunction with the latch assembly to permitselective disengagement of the pawl from the locking position shown inFIG. 14 within recess 121 so that the gate closure 14 may be pivoteddownwardly to its closed position. Such means includes a catch 131pivotally mounted on bracket 111 by means of a pivot pin 132 passingthrough a mounting extension on one end thereof. The catch includes anoffset detent section 133 which is selectively engageable with pawl 126.As seen in FIGS. 16 and 17, the pawl is provided with a groove 134 inone edge thereof with which the offset portion of detent 133 of thecatch is receivable when the pawl is depressed into the housing. In thatregard, it should be understood that the side of the housing is open topermit selective engagement and disengagement of the catch detent withthe pawl groove.

To that end, at its other end the catch is provided with an enlargedcurved trip section 136 which is gravity responsive so that the catchnormally tends to rotate in a counterclockwise direction when viewed inFIGS. 13 through 17. The trip section is normally gravity urged intocontact with the cylindrical wall 117 of the latch member (although aspring could also be utilized) so that detent 133 thereof normally tendsto become engaged in pawl groove 134.

When it is desired to pivot gate closure 14 from the fully closedposition shown in FIG. 13 to the fully open position shown in FIG. 14,it is merely necessary to grasp and rotate handle 26 which controls thelatching rods 21 aforementioned, and to pull upwardly on handle 26 whichin turn causes rotation of the latch member 112 in the clockwisedirection from the FIG. 13 position to the FIG. 14 position. Upon thelatch member reaching the FIG. 14 position, the spring urging of pawl126 will cause the pawl to become automatically engaged within recess121 so that the end gate closure may be securely held in the positionshown.

When it is desired to return the gate closure from the open position ofFIG. 14 to the closed position of FIG. 13, the holding effect of thepawl must be first counteracted and that is effected in the sequenceshown in FIGS. 15 through 17. In that regard, it is first necessary topivot the gate closure further upwardly from the FIG. 14 position to thesolid line position shown in FIG. 15. Such continued upward pivotalmovement of the end gate closure effects further clockwise rotation ofthe latch member 112 which causes pawl 126 to be depressed upwardly whenthe cam 122 provided adjacent the recess 121 contacts the pawl end inthe manner seen in FIG. 15. When the pawl is thus depressed, thegravitational effect on the trip section 136 of the catch forces thedetent section 133 thereof to rotate counterclockwise and to becomeengaged with the pawl groove 134 as seen in FIG. 15. The pawl is thusheld out of engagement with the recess.

Thereafter, the end gate closure may be pivoted downwardly because thepawl is not free to engage the recess 121. Counterclockwise rotation ofthe latch member brings cam 122 into engagement with the trip section136 of the catch as seen in FIG. 16. Upon continued counterclockwiserotation of the latch to the position shown in FIG. 17, the trip sectionis forced to ride over the cam, thereby forcibly removing the detent 133thereof from the pawl groove 134 so that the pawl is again let intoengagement with the wall 117 of the latch member.

However, the detent and recess of the latch member are positionedrelative to each other so that the pawl, when it is let into engagementwith the latch member, cannot enter recess 12] as seen in FIG. 17. Uponcontinued counterclockwise rotation of the latch member by moving theend gate closure downwardly, the pawl merely rides on the periphery ofthe latch member wall 117 until the position shown in FIG. 13 isreached, in which the end gate closure 14 may be locked in place in themanner described previously. At that time, the pawl is properlypositioned and is ready to drop into the recess 121 when the end gateclosure is pivoted to the open position shown in FIG. 14 in the mannerdescribed previously.

Thus, the latch assembly described is automatically operable to permitselective holding of the end gate closure in the open position whilebeing readily movable to the closed position when desired.

Having thus made a full disclosure of the various embodiments of thisinvention, reference is directed to the appended claims for the scope ofprotection to be afforded thereto.

I claim:

1. A telescopic cover assembly for covering the open bed of a vehicle,such as a truck, comprising A. at least two cover segments of differentsizes and of inverted generally U-shaped cross-sectional configuration,

B. means at opposite sides of said cover segments for mounting suchsegments on the body of said vehicle on opposite sides of said bed andfor guiding at least one of said segments for telescopic movementrelative to another segment between an extended position and a retractedposition, each said mounting and guiding means including elongatedmounting plate structure to be secured along one side of said vehiclebody, and

2. guide rail structure extending along said mounting plate structureand supported thereby for at least part of its length,

C. support structure mounted on said movable cover segment which isengageable with and movable along said guide rail structures duringmovement of such segment between said extended and retracted positions,comprismg l. a wheel assembly mounted adjacent each of the respectivefront and rear ends of said movable segment at opposite sides thereof,and

D. structure in conjunction with said mounting and guiding means andsaid support structure for elevating said movable segment as the samemoves to its extended position and for lowering such segment as the samemoves toward its retracted position, comprising 1. inclined meansprovided adjacent one end of each of said mounting plate structures andintermediate each of said mounting plate structures which are engageableby said wheel assemblies mounted on said cover segment.

2. The cover assembly of claim 1 in which said inclined means comprisesa. at least one tapered block mounted at a predetermined location alongthe length of each of said mounting plate structures, and in which saidsupport structure further includes at least one wheel assembly on eachside of said movable cover segment which includes a portion thereofwhich is engageable with an associated tapered block when said coversegment is moved to its extended position.

3. The cover assembly of claim 2 in which each of the wheel assemblieslast mentioned includes a. a rotatable wheel mounted thereon anddefining said portion thereof which is engageable with an associatedtapered block.

4. The cover assembly of claim I which further includes E. detent meansin conjunction with at least one of said inclined means with which atleast one of said wheel assemblies is engageable for releasablyretaining said movable cover segment in a predetermined position whensuch one wheel assembly is engaged with said detent means.

5. The cover assembly of claim I in which said inclined means comprisesa. a pair of spaced tapered blocks mounted on each of said mountingplate structures adjacent said one end thereof and intermediate theopposite ends thereof which are engageable by said wheel assembliesmounted on said movable cover segment as such segment approaches itsextended position from its retracted position.

6. The cover assembly of claim I in which said inclined means comprisesa. a pair of spaced tapered sections formed on each of said guide railstructures adjacent one end of such guide rail and intermediate theopposite ends thereof which are engageable by said wheel assembliesmounted on said movable cover segment as such segment approaches itsextended position from its retracted position. 7. The cover assembly ofclaim 1 in which means comprises a. a tapered block mounted intermediatethe opposite ends of the respective mounting plate structures which areengageable by the wheel assemblies mounted at one end of said movablecover segment as such segment approaches its extended position from itsretracted position, and

b. a tapered section formed at one end of the respective guide railstructures which are engageable by the wheel assemblies mounted at theother end of said movable segment as such segment approaches itsextended position from its retracted position.

8. The cover assembly of claim 1 in which said inclined means comprisesa. an inclined portion formed on the respective guide rail structuresintermediate the opposite ends thereof which are engageable by the wheelassemblies mounted at one end of said movable cover segment as-suchsegment approaches its extended position from its retracted position,and

b. a tapered block mounted adjacent one end of the respective mountingplate structures which are engageably by the wheel assemblies mounted atthe said inclined other end of said movable segment as such segmentapproaches its extended position from its retracted position.

9. The cover assembly of claim 5 in which each of said guiderail-structures is mounted on an outer side of its associated mountingplate structure, and in which each of said tapered blocks is mounted onan inner side of its associated mounting plate structure.

10. The cover assembly of claim 7 in which each of said guide railstructures is mounted on an outer side of its associated mounting platestructure, and in which each of said tapered blocks is mountedon aninner side of its associated mounting plate structure.

11. The cover assembly of claim 8 in which each of said guide railstructures is mounted on an outer side of its associated mounting platestructure, and in which each of said tapered blocks is mounted on aninner side of its associated mounting plate structure.

12. The cover assembly of claim 1 in which each of said wheel assembliescomprises a. a housing,

b. upper and lower wheels rotatably mounted on said housing for rollingengagement with an associated guide rail structure, and

c. spring structure engaged with at least one of said wheels fornormally urging the same into engagement with said guide rail structureand permitting selective separation of said wheels from each other.

13. The cover assembly of claim 12 in which at least one of said guiderail structures includes a. spaced cutouts fonned in an undersurfacethereof along which one of said wheel assemblies is movable,

b. said cutouts being formed at predetermined locations along such guiderail structure for engagement with the lower wheel of such one wheelassembly to retain said movable cover segment in a predeterminedposition in accordance with the location of said cutouts.

14. The cover assembly of claim 3 in which said inclined means furtherincludes b. a recess formed in at least one of said tapered blocks inwhich said wheel of an associated wheel assembly is receivable when saidmovable cover segment is in its extended position so that such segmentmay be releasably retained in such position.

15. The cover assembly of claim 1 in which each of said guide railstructures is generally straight throughout its length.

16. The cover assembly of claim 1 in which each of said guide railstructures includes a. first and second generally straight horizontalportions extending inwardly toward each other from opposite ends thereofon the same level,

b. a third generally straight horizontal portion intermediate saidopposite ends on a higher level than said first and second portions, and

c. two inclined portions connecting said first and second portions withsaid third portion.

17. The cover assembly of claim 1 in which each of said guide railstructures includes a. an elongated generally straight horizontalportion extending inwardly from one end thereof, and

b. a second generally straight horizontal portion extending inwardlyfrom the other end thereof on a higher level than said first portion andterminating adjacent said other end, and

c. an inclined portion interposed between and connecting said first andsecond portions.

18. The cover assembly of claim 1 in which said support structurefurther includes 2. a backup plate secured to each of the opposite sidesof said movable cover segment at the rear end thereof adjacent saidwheel assemblies mounted at such opposite sides of said cover segmentrear end,

3. each said backup plate having a cutout therein which permits suchplate to move along its associated guide rail structure as said movablecover segment moves between its extended and retracted positions.

19. The cover assembly of claim 18 which further includes E. an end capsecured to the rear end of each of said mounting plate structures andguide rail structures at opposite sides of said vehicle bed,

1. each such end cap being engaged by a backup plate secured to the rearend of said movable cover segment when such segment is in its extendedposition, each such end cap thereby closing oh the cutout in itsassociated backup plate.

20. The cover assembly of claim 1 which further includes B. an upwardlypivotal gate closure hingedly supported on one end of one of said coversegments for closing off said segment end, and

F. a pawl and recess operated latch assembly interposed between said onecover segment and said gate closure for selectively maintaining saidgate closure in an open position. I

21. The cover assembly of claim 20 in which said latch as semblycomprises 1. a mounting bracket secured to said one cover segmentadjacent said gate closure,

2. a pivotal latch having a recess therein mounted for rotary movementon said bracket,

3. a pawl selectively receivable within said recess when said latch isin a first predetermined position in which said gate closure is heldopen,

4. a catch selectively engageable with said pawl for holding the sameout of engagement with said recess so that said latch may be rotatedbetween said first position and a second predetermined position in whichsaid gate closure is closed, and

5. link means operatively connected between said latch and said gateclosure for effecting pivotal movement of said latch when said gateclosure is moved to its open position and for holding said gate closureopen when said pawl is engaged in said recess when said gate closurereaches said open position.

22. A telescopic cover assembly for covering the open bed of a vehicle,such as a truck, comprising A. at least two cover segments, of differentsizes and of inverted generally U-shaped cross-sectional configuration,one of which is telescopically movable relative to the other,

B. means at opposite sides of said cover segments for mounting saidcover segments on the body of said vehicle on opposite sides of said bedfor telescopic movement of said one segment relative to said othersegment between an extended position and a retracted position,

C. support structures mounted on said movable cover segment adjacent therespective front and rear ends thereof which are engageable with andmovable along said mounting means during movement of such movablesegment between said extended and retracted positions,

D. backup plate structures secured to opposite sides of said movablecover segment at said rear end thereof,

I. each said backup plate structure having a cutout therein whichpermits such backup plate structure to move along its associatedmounting means as said movable cover segment is moved between saidextended and retracted positions, and E. end cap structures secured tothe rear ends of said mounting means at opposite sides of said vehiclebed,

I. each such end cap structure being engageable by a backup platestructure secured to the rear end of said movable segment when suchmovable segment is in its extended position, each such end cap structurethereby closing off the cutout in its associated backup plate structure.

23. The telescopic cover assembly of claim 22 which further includes F.gate closure means operatively connected with said G. a pawl and recessoperated latch assembly interposed movable cover segment to close offthe rear end of said between said one cover segment and said gateclosure movable segment in all positions thereof and to open such meansfor selectively maintaining said gate closure means rear end to permitaccess to the interior of such segment, in said open position.comprising 26. The cover assembly of claim 25 in which said latch asl. aclosure plate mounted interiorly of said backup plate sembly comprisesstructures which is selectively movable between a l. a mounting bracketsecured to said one cover segment closed position in which said rear endof said movable ja Said g closure means, segment is closed off and anopen position i hi h 2. a pivotal latch having a recess therein mountedfor rosuch rear end is open and unrestricted, movement on Said bracket,

2, id lo l t being f a idth hi h i fi h l l 3. a pawl selectivelyreceivable within said recess when than the spacing between the innersurfaces of the opposed sidewalls of said vehicle which define oppositesides of said open bed so that said closure plate may be moved to itsclosed position and locked therein when said movable cover segment is ineither its extended position or retracted position. 24. The telescopiccover assembly of claim 23 in which said gate closure plate is 3.movably supported at said rear end of said movable cover segment forupward and downward movement relative to and between said opposed innersurfaces of said vehicle sidewalls in all positions of said movablecover segment.

said latch is in a first predetermined position in which said gateclosure means is held open,

. a catch selectively engageable with said pawl for holding the same outof engagement with said recess so that said latch may be rotated betweensaid first position and a second predetermined position in which saidgate closure means is closed, and

. link means operatively connected between said latch and said gateclosure means for effecting pivotal movement of said latch when saidgate closure means is moved to its open position and for holding saidgate closure means open when said pawl is engaged in said recess whensaid gate closure means reaches said open 25. The telescopic coverassembly of claim 24 which further 25 Positionincludes

1. A telescopic cover assembly for covering the open bed of a vehicle,such as a truck, comprising A. at least two cover segments of differentsizes and of inverted generally U-shaped cross-sectional configuration,B. means at opposite sides of said cover segments for mounting suchsegments on the body of said vehicle on opposite sides of said bed andfor guiding at least one of said segments for telescopic movementrelative to another segment between an extended position and a retractedposition, each said mounting and guiding means including
 1. elongatedmounting plate structure to be secured along one side of said vehiclebody, and
 2. guide rail structure extending along said mounting platestructure and supported thereby for at least part of its length, C.support structure mounted on said movable cover segment which isengageable with and movable along said guide rail structures duringmovement of such segment between said extended and retracted positions,comprising
 1. a wheel assembly mounted adjacent each of the respectivefront and rear ends of said movable segment at opposite sides thereof,and D. structure in conjunction with said mounting and guiding means andsaid support structure for elevating said movable segment as the samemoves to its extended position and for lowering such segment as the samemoves toward its retracted position, comprising
 1. inclined meansprovided adjacent one end of each of said mounting plate structures andintermediate each of said mounting plate structures which are engageableby said wheel assemblies mounted on said cover segment.
 2. said closureplate being of a width which is slightly less than the spacing betweenthe inner surfaces of the opposed sidewalls of said vehicle which defineopposite sides of said open bed so that said closure plate may be movedto its closed position and locked therein when said movable coversegment is in either its extended position or retracted position. 2.guide rail structure extending along said mounting plate structure andsupported thereby for at least part of its length, C. support structuremounted on said movable cover segment which is engageable with andmovable along said guide rail structures during movement of such segmentbetween said extended and retracted positions, comprising
 2. The coverassembly of claim 1 in which said inclined means comprises a. at leastone tapered block mounted at a predetermined location along the lengthof each of said mounting plate structures, and in which said supportstructure further includes at least one wheel assembly on each side ofsaid movable cover segment which includes a portion thereof which iseNgageable with an associated tapered block when said cover segment ismoved to its extended position.
 2. a backup plate secured to each of theopposite sides of said movable cover segment at the rear end thereofadjacent said wheel assemblies mounted at such opposite sides of saidcover segment rear end,
 2. a pivotal latch having a recess thereinmounted for rotary movement on said bracket,
 2. a pivotal latch having arecess therein mounted for rotary movement on said bracket,
 3. a pawlselectively receivable within said recess when said latch is in a firstpredetermined position in which said gate closure means is held open, 3.a pawl selectively receivable within said recess when said latch is in afirst predetermined position in which said gate closure is held open, 3.each said backup plate having a cutout therein which permits such plateto move along its associated guide rail structure as said movable coversegment moves between its extended and retracted positions.
 3. movablysupported at said rear end of said movable cover segment for upward anddownward movement relative to and between said opposed inner surfaces ofsaid vehicle sidewalls in all positions of said movable cover segment.3. The cover assembly of claim 2 in which each of the wheel assemblieslast mentioned includes a. a rotatable wheel mounted thereon anddefining said portion thereof which is engageable with an associatedtapered block.
 4. The cover assembly of claim 1 which further includesE. detent means in conjunction with at least one of said inclined meanswith which at least one of said wheel assemblies is engageable forreleasably retaining said movable cover segment in a predeterminedposition when such one wheel assembly is engaged with said detent means.4. a catch selectively engageable with said pawl for holding the sameout of engagement with said recess so that said latch may be rotatedbetween said first position and a second predetermined position in whichsaid gate closure is closed, and
 4. a catch selectively engageable withsaid pawl for holding the same out of engagement with said recess sothat said latch may be rotated between said first position and a secondpredetermined position in which said gate closure means is closed, and5. The cover assembly of claim 1 in which said inclined means comprisesa. a pair of spaced tapered blocks mounted on each of said mountingplate structures adjacent said one end thereof and intermediate theopposite ends thereof which are engageable by said wheel assembliesmounted on said movable cover segment as such segment approaches itsextended position from its retracted position.
 5. link means operativelyconnected between said latch and said gate closure for effecting pivotalmovement of said latch when said gate closure is moved to its openposItion and for holding said gate closure open when said pawl isengaged in said recess when said gate closure reaches said openposition.
 5. link means operatively connected betWeen said latch andsaid gate closure means for effecting pivotal movement of said latchwhen said gate closure means is moved to its open position and forholding said gate closure means open when said pawl is engaged in saidrecess when said gate closure means reaches said open position.
 6. Thecover assembly of claim 1 in which said inclined means comprises a. apair of spaced tapered sections formed on each of said guide railstructures adjacent one end of such guide rail and intermediate theopposite ends thereof which are engageable by said wheel assembliesmounted on said movable cover segment as such segment approaches itsextended position from its retracted position.
 7. The cover assembly ofclaim 1 in which said inclined means comprises a. a tapered blockmounted intermediate the opposite ends of the respective mounting platestructures which are engageable by the wheel assemblies mounted at oneend of said movable cover segment as such segment approaches itsextended position from its retracted position, and b. a tapered sectionformed at one end of the respective guide rail structures which areengageable by the wheel assemblies mounted at the other end of saidmovable segment as such segment approaches its extended position fromits retracted position.
 8. The cover assembly of claim 1 in which saidinclined means comprises a. an inclined portion formed on the respectiveguide rail structures intermediate the opposite ends thereof which areengageable by the wheel assemblies mounted at one end of said movablecover segment as such segment approaches its extended position from itsretracted position, and b. a tapered block mounted adjacent one end ofthe respective mounting plate structures which are engageably by thewheel assemblies mounted at the other end of said movable segment assuch segment approaches its extended position from its retractedposition.
 9. The cover assembly of claim 5 in which each of said guiderail structures is mounted on an outer side of its associated mountingplate structure, and in which each of said tapered blocks is mounted onan inner side of its associated mounting plate structure.
 10. The coverassembly of claim 7 in which each of said guide rail structures ismounted on an outer side of its associated mounting plate structure, andin which each of said tapered blocks is mounted on an inner side of itsassociated mounting plate structure.
 11. The cover assembly of claim 8in which each of said guide rail structures is mounted on an outer sideof its associated mounting plate structure, and in which each of saidtapered blocks is mounted on an inner side of its associated mountingplate structure.
 12. The cover assembly of claim 1 in which each of saidwheel assemblies comprises a. a housing, b. upper and lower wheelsrotatably mounted on said housing for rolling engagement with anassociated guide rail structure, and c. spring structure engaged with atleast one of said wheels for normally urging the same into engagementwith said guide rail structure and permitting selective separation ofsaid wheels from each other.
 13. The cover assembly of claim 12 in whichat least one of said guide rAil structures includes a. spaced cutoutsformed in an undersurface thereof along which one of said wheelassemblies is movable, b. said cutouts being formed at predeterminedlocations along such guide rail structure for engagement with the lowerwheel of such one wheel assembly to retain said movable cover segment ina predetermined position in accordance with the location of saidcutouts.
 14. The cover assembly of claim 3 in which said inclined meansfurther includes b. a recess formed in at least one of said taperedblocks in which said wheel of an associated wheel assembly is receivablewhen said movable cover segment is in its extended position so that suchsegment may be releasably retained in such position.
 15. The coverassembly of claim 1 in which each of said guide rail structures isgenerally straight throughout its length.
 16. The cover assembly ofclaim 1 in which each of said guide rail structures includes a. firstand second generally straight horizontal portions extending inwardlytoward each other from opposite ends thereof on the same level, b. athird generally straight horizontal portion intermediate said oppositeends on a higher level than said first and second portions, and c. twoinclined portions connecting said first and second portions with saidthird portion.
 17. The cover assembly of claim 1 in which each of saidguide rail structures includes a. an elongated generally straighthorizontal portion extending inwardly from one end thereof, and b. asecond generally straight horizontal portion extending inwardly from theother end thereof on a higher level than said first portion andterminating adjacent said other end, and c. an inclined portioninterposed between and connecting said first and second portions. 18.The cover assembly of claim 1 in which said support structure furtherincludes
 19. The cover assembly of claim 18 which further includes E. anend cap secured to the rear end of each of said mounting platestructures and guide rail structures at opposite sides of said vehiclebed,
 20. The cover assembly of claim 1 which further includes E. anupwardly pivotal gate closure hingedly supported on one end of one ofsaid cover segments for closing off said segment end, and F. a pawl andrecess operated latch assembly interposed between said one cover segmentand said gate closure for selectively maintaining said gate closure inan open position.
 21. The cover assembly of claim 20 in which said latchassembly comprises
 22. A telescopic cover assembly for covering the openbed of a vehicle, such as a truck, comprising A. at least two coversegments, of different sizes and of inverted generally U-shapedcross-sectional configuration, one of which is telescopically movablerelative to the other, B. means at opposite sides of said cover segmentsfor mounting said cover segments on the body of said vehicle on oppositesides of said bed for telescopic movement of said one segment relativeto said other segment between an extended position and a retractedposition, C. support structures mounted on said movable cover segmentadjacent the respective front and rear ends thereof which are engageablewith and movable along said mounting means during movement of suchmovable segment between said extended and retracted positions, D. backupplate structures secured to opposite sides of said movable cover segmentat said rear end thereof,
 23. The telescopic cover assembly of claim 22which further includes F. gate closure means operatively connected withsaid movable cover segment to close off the rear end of said movablesegment in all positions thereof and to open such rear end to permitaccess to the interior of such segment, comprising
 24. The telescopiccover assembly of claim 23 in which said gate closure plate is
 25. Thetelescopic cover assembly of claim 24 which further includes G. a pawland recess operated latch assembly interposed between said one coversegment and said gate closure means for selectively maintaining saidgate closure means in said open position.
 26. The cover assembly ofclaim 25 in which said latch assembly comprises